Major Threat to Air Travel in the Northeastern United States

The Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce has raised concerns over the Scottish Government’s plans to implement a “supertax” on air travel, citing it as a threat to the future of Aberdeen airport and the economy of the North East of Scotland.

The Chamber has warned that such a tax could price people out of domestic air travel, isolating the region and impacting the thousands of holiday makers and business travelers who rely on Aberdeen airport for direct flights to major domestic hubs and holiday destinations. The proposed tax would not only hinder the region’s connectivity but also add an additional burden on travelers who already pay a premium for direct flights.

Russell Borthwick, the chief executive of the Chamber, criticized the government’s initiative as “deeply unhelpful” and contrary to the First Minister’s promises of a “new deal for business.” He emphasized the importance of investing in sustainable aviation fuels and modern rail infrastructure instead of burdening travelers with excessive taxes.

Borthwick also highlighted the lack of investment in travel infrastructure in Aberdeen, pointing out that rail services to the rest of Scotland are not a viable alternative for business travelers due to their slow and unreliable nature. He argued that the proposed exemptions for the Highlands and Islands would put Aberdeen at a disadvantage and called for a more holistic approach to promoting sustainable travel options.

The Chamber’s concerns reflect a growing unease among business interests in the region, as they fear the potential negative impact of the government’s tax proposals on the local economy and connectivity. It remains to be seen how the Scottish Government will address these concerns and whether they will reconsider their plans in light of the Chamber’s warnings.